To provide a variable stator vane mechanism, for an axial flow compressor, which is excellent in durability, has a simple structure, and is realized at low cost. The variable stator vane mechanism for adjusting a mounting angle of a stator vane of an axial flow compressor includes: an arm coupled to the stator vane; a rotation ring coupled to one end portion of the arm and located at an outer surface of a casing of the axial flow compressor; a driving machine configured to rotate the rotation ring to cause the stator vane to pivot via the arm; and a friction pad mounted on the casing. The rotation ring is in frictional contact with the friction pad.